"The Money Course" for High School Students

Published December 10th, 2013

Loading Video...

It's never too early to start learning how to use money wisely. At least that's what some florida lawmakers are saying. A study by the state department of education shows young adults are not prepared to handle their finances after they graduate high school. That's why teachers and lawmakers from both parties are pushing for a new high school graduation requirement.

It's called the money course. Florida senator dorothy hukill is the sponsor of a bill that would require high school students to take a half credit financial literacy class. The bill is the result of a recommendation from a group called the florida council on economic education. A bill the became law earlier this year requires that personal finance standards be taught in economic courses. But those in favor of the new bill, want a stand alone financial course to better prepare young adults.

Florida Senator Dorothy Hukill said, "how children are graduating with a tremendous amount of debt whether it is a debit card or a credit card, tuition payments etc. we need to provide them with the tools that they can face their financial freedom and they know how to manage their money".

The next step for the bill is to be considered by the senate education committee during next year's session. If passed, the bill would go into effect for those entering high school during the 2014-2015 school year.

On our Facebook page, we asked what you thought about this new possible requirement. Nikki "I graduated in 2008, we barely learned how to write a check. I think it should be a class to pass to graduate to learn credit, banking, stocks and retirement."

The sponsors of the bill are saying the course will cost the school districts very little, but no specifics numbers are available.